Shutdown Update: Thousands of Flights to Be Reduced
It is day 37 of the federal government shutdown, now entering its sixth week. Travelers face significant disruptions as flight capacity is being cut by 10%, causing delays and cancellations. This reduction aims to maintain manageable travel levels for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amid staffing challenges caused by the shutdown.
Impact on Travelers and Upcoming Holidays
With Thanksgiving only three weeks away, millions of people risk not reaching their destinations for the holidays. The ongoing shutdown forces air traffic controllers to operate without pay, increasing pressure on the system.
Political Context
Democrats in Congress continue to oppose a clean continuing resolution that would fund the government at previously approved spending levels. This shutdown-related disruption in air travel adds to the hardships imposed on Americans as part of this political standoff.
FAA Flight Reductions
On November 6, 2025, Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the FAA's proactive measure to cut flight traffic by 10% in 40 high-traffic markets nationwide. Approximately 4,000 flights are affected, with reductions beginning as early as November 7, 2025.
"Our sole role is to make sure that we keep this airspace as safe as possible." — FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford
This step is intended to alleviate the workload on air traffic controllers working without pay during the shutdown.
Summary
The federal shutdown is causing significant disruptions in air travel, with a 10% cut in flights affecting thousands of travelers just weeks before Thanksgiving, as political deadlock persists.
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